In the new episode premiering May 13 on Disney Junior, the gang meets Fig, a gnome friend who is deaf; the show joins other series, including ‘The Simpsons,’ ‘DreamWorks Madagascar: A Little Wild,’ and Apple TV’s ‘El Deafo,’ breaking ground for deaf representation, expanding inclusivity and promoting awareness.
Yesterday’s new episode, written by Loni Steele Sosthand, broke ground with two show firsts.
See clips of Season 6 ‘sign over’ performances by deaf actress Shaylee Mansfield, using American Sign Language to communicate new character ‘Shaylee,’ expanding inclusivity and awareness of ASL.
For supervising director T.J. Sullivan, building on the success of DreamWorks Animation’s hit franchise meant ensuring that as kids, the fab four – Alex, Marty, Gloria, and Melman – get the right chance to form bonds that last a lifetime.
